"An example from my life.
"FIFTY years ago - I have never forgotten. The girl is long gone and never knew of the intentional sacrifice. This friend hasn't been seen for more years than I can remember. But his gift will live in the realm of self-sacrificing love of one for another, forever.
"In spirit, I am awarding this trophy to a forever friend that lives 750 miles away. Perhaps one day, I'll do this in person."
The above was copied from Everybody Deserves (Sandals and a Stick). You can read the whole story by clicking the link.
After publishing that article, I was haunted for several days. Something in me proclaimed that if this standing ovation is truly important, there should be no delay, no excuse - and that includes distance.
I began to work on how this could be done. I needed an intermediary and Google was quite helpful. I won't go into the details. I am sensitive to the fact that privacy is important when placing things like this online. Just know that I was able to find my friend's daughter.
I am believing that this whole thing is a small miracle because I can't imagine why this young woman responded to an out-of-the-blue, who-the-heck-is-this-guy request to connect for this wildly strange purpose. I was, however, very understanding when she asked if this 'trophy' had anything to do with an explosion of confetti or something similar. After all, I was promoting the idea that family and friends would be handily available on Thanksgiving.
She committed selflessly and took care of every detail while keeping it a secret from the Guest of Honor. I hope she knows how very much I appreciate her every effort.
I wasn't there. I didn't need to be.
When it was over, FaceTime was used and for the first time in countless years, I was able to visit with this generous spirit. I can't even explain the emotion of seeing him again. Shortly afterward, the planning angel sent a text (black) and I responded (blue). I am completely overcome.
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8
Trust me when I say this "#Groupsof10 - Everybody Deserves" program is not going away. It's important to lift each other up. It's important to bridge divisions and connect with each other. It's important to love each other sacrificially and to recognize and be grateful when things like this are done for others.
Who is it that comes to mind when you think about giving someone a standing ovation for acts of love? Remember, if it is important, there are no excuses.
To learn more, click here.
Sandals and a Stick - Website link for #Groupsof10 - Everybody Deserves - Learn more about how this works and how you can participate.
1 comment:
In tears again this morning Dad. Your generosity, kindness and thoughtfulness will never cease to amaze me. I can’t only hope to continue to strive to be more like you as you share the purest love with so many. Love you.
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